gaping
Translation
wide open, cavernous
Examples
There was a gaping hole in the road.
There was a gaping hole in the road.
He stared in gaping disbelief.
He stared in gaping disbelief.
Grammar Patterns
((gaping)) + noun describes a noun as being wide open A gaping wound needed immediate attention.
Similar Words
Synonyms: wide open, cavernous, yawning; Antonyms: closed, narrow
Etymology
From the verb 'to gape', from Old Norse 'gapa' (to open the mouth wide).
Memory Tips
Think of a large 'gap', which makes a 'gaping' hole. The sound of 'gape' is similar to opening your mouth wide in surprise.